Taylah Elaine is the kind of DJ who doesn’t just play music, she curates a feeling. London-based, and endlessly plugged into the pulse of the city, Taylah has built a reputation for turning dance floors into living, breathing extensions of her playlists. Her sets weave together many moods: a little UK Garage, a little R&B, a touch of Amapiano, a lot of Soul.
Starting out in community radio before moving into London’s most iconic clubs, Taylah’s sound captures her personality and style, alongside the cities energy. She’s shared stages with some of the biggest names in the game, spun for fashion houses and underground raves alike, and still manages to make every set feel intimate — like she’s playing just for you.
Taylah hangs out in our Premium King room overlooking the sweeping views of St Pancras, as she gets ready to shut down Sweeties she takes a moment to reflect on the worlds of music and fashion that inspire her sound and signature style.
What was the moment you realised you wanted music to be your career?
I was super young! I had been training in dance since the age of 9, Musical Theatre until I was around 13. But before that, Michael Jackson was my icon. I had no idea what or who I wanted to be but I knew whatever it was, it was always going to revolve around music.
If we raided your “guilty pleasure” playlist, what embarrassing bangers would we find?
Eddie Murphy - Party All The Time (still can't believe he made this song. Iconic. Not sure if this is even embarrassing), Daryl Hall & John Oates - Out of Touch, A-ha - Take on Me... I have so many! My guilty pleasure playlist is probably my most played as it's the best music to run to!
Most extravagant luxury purchase you’ve ever made?
I'm not a huge spender if I'm honest. Most of my designer items are vintage finds and I've just moved home so I'm pretty obsessed with homeware and furniture right now. I did buy a new car last week though lol.
Favourite music publication and favourite fashion publication?
DJ Mag for sure! They've supported me a lot throughout the years at almost every stage of my career. I also LOVE Pop Mag. I'm always blown away by their covers.
Where do you think you’d be if you still worked in Fashion?
I started off as a PR girl but I don't think I'd still be doing that. I very much enjoy being a consumer when it comes to fashion, but I do think I would have tried to develop a brand of my own. Might still give it a go...
What piece of clothing do you most associate with London?
My thigh high Dr. Martens. Perfect for any occasion in my opinion; a rainy day, a night out, a festival. I'd even wear them to dinner tbh. Think I wore them to the airport once.
Favourite graphic t-shirt you’ve ever owned?
Tour merch from Pitch festival in Australia that I got earlier this year. Was such a fun festival to play at and my names on the back obviously. I'll keep that forever x
Who’s the wildest character you’ve spotted in the crowd while you’ve been behind the decks?
The wilder the better to be honest! And one thing about my audience is that they are super diverse and I love that about them. I see all types of people in the crowd wherever I play but none of them are too wild for me! I love them all!
Clubs can get messy… what’s the funniest or strangest thing that’s ever happened mid-set?
Someone did a backflip on stage once. It was my first ever gig in LA and I played with a friend of mine. This was before I had built my audience over there so I was playing a super club. It was VERY You got Served but I was kinda here for it. Me and my best friend still laugh about that till this day.
If you could only DJ in one venue for the rest of your life — super club, dingy basement, or rooftop party — what venue would you pick?
Dingy basement all the way!! The people come to dance and sweat! It's the least performative and the most free.
Everyone’s got that one track they wish they’d produced. What’s yours?
FKA Twigs & Koreless - Drums of Death. I LOVE drums and I LOVE that song. I think my dance background has a huge impact on my love for drums.
When you’re not DJing, where would we catch you on a weekend — partying, chilling, or at home in your slippers?
I'm really at home in my slippers. I love touring and plan to tour for the foreseeable. However, when I'm off, I'm OFF! I thoroughly enjoy cleaning my house, lighting my incense, cooking and binging a series. I've just watched all 8 seasons of Game of Thrones for the 4th time so that says it all really
Whether she’s behind the decks at a sweaty East London basement, misbehaving in Sweeties, Taylah brings warmth, confidence, and that unmistakable London edge. Expect big energy, unexpected blends, and vibes that linger long after the last track fades.
You can book a table at Sweeties, or simply drop by take in the city views and order one of our house cocktails.
